Cucci's El Five restaurant opens for business

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Justin Cucci’s much-anticipated El Five has finally opened on the fifth floor of the building behind his famed restaurant Linger.

El Five boasts spectacular, unobstructed views of the downtown Denver skyline, as well as a sprawling view of the Highland neighborhood and the mountains beyond.

“We found a unique challenge in trying to unify the view on all sides of the space and ultimately, we ended up finding a creative way to activate both sides for the guest,” Cucci says. “They are distinctly different. When the sun is setting, the mountainside will be stunning and the whole bar opens up, coming together as an amazing experience that marries city, nature and space.”

The restaurant is the fifth concept for Cucci, owner of Denver-based Edible Beats. In addition to Linger, El Five joins Root Down (both in LoHi and DIA), Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox and Vital Root.

The small menu is streamlined, with plates meant for sharing. Highlights include three different kinds of paella; lamb rib shawarma; tortilla espanola; and whole roasted fish. Finish off dinner with a flan or kunefe (shredded filo dough, pistachios and goat cheese ice cream.

The cocktail menu features signature cocktails like the Pineapple Mint Collins (vodka, sekanjabin, lime, pineapple, mint and soda); The Old Turk (whiskey, Turkish coffee bitters and raw sugar); and Fez Medina (Rye, amaro, Aperol, orange bitters, cedar and lemon oil). There’s also a selection of wines and beers, as well as exotic cocktails served in a traditional glass pitcher that are meant for sharing.